Toyota wants to get into the WRC game and it will do so with a hopped-up version of the ugly and boring little Yaris. I’m probably more surprised to write this than you are to read it, but Toyota is teasing a version of the Yaris that will debut in Geneva and the car is very cool. A cool Yaris?!
The Yaris hot hatch will be based on the 2-door hatchback body style and will have a 207 hp engine under the hood. The booooring Yaris that we get in the US has a scant 106hp by comparison. The entire Yaris line will be getting some upgrades to make it less boring with new front face, new rear styling, and a modernized interior.
Performance and Specifications
The new Yaris hot hatch is not just about looks; it’s about performance too. The 207 hp engine is a significant upgrade from the standard model, making it a serious contender in the hot hatch market. This engine will likely be a turbocharged 1.6-liter, designed to deliver both power and efficiency. The car will also feature a sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and a more responsive steering system to handle the increased power. These enhancements will make the Yaris not just a city car but a fun-to-drive vehicle on winding roads and even on the track.
Design and Features
The exterior design of the new Yaris hot hatch is a departure from the mundane look of its predecessors. The new front face features aggressive styling with a larger grille and sportier bumper. The rear has also been revamped with a new bumper, diffuser, and a spoiler that adds to its sporty appeal. The car sits on larger, sportier wheels that fill out the wheel arches nicely, giving it a more planted stance.
Inside, the Yaris hot hatch will feature a modernized interior with upgraded materials and technology. Expect to see sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and unique trim elements that set it apart from the standard model. The infotainment system will likely include a larger touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Toyota also promises improved comfort and handling, making it a more enjoyable car for daily driving as well as spirited drives.
The car actually looks pretty cool in the photo here. Now for the sad part, Toyota won’t bring this hopped-up Yaris to the US. We never get the cool cars. 🙁
Global Market and Availability
While the US market will miss out on this exciting new model, the Yaris hot hatch will be available in Europe and other markets where small, sporty cars are more popular. In these regions, the Yaris will compete with other hot hatches like the Ford Fiesta ST, Volkswagen Polo GTI, and Renault Clio RS. These cars have a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate their blend of performance, practicality, and affordability.
In addition to the hot hatch, the entire Yaris line will receive updates to make it more appealing. These updates include new front and rear styling, a modernized interior, and improved comfort and handling. These changes aim to make the Yaris a more competitive offering in the subcompact car segment, which is crowded with options from various manufacturers.
Toyota’s decision to enter the WRC game with a hopped-up Yaris is a bold move that could pay off in terms of brand image and sales. The new Yaris hot hatch promises to be a fun and exciting car that breaks away from the boring reputation of its predecessors. While it’s disappointing that this model won’t be available in the US, it’s encouraging to see Toyota taking risks and pushing the envelope with their designs.
For those lucky enough to live in markets where the Yaris hot hatch will be available, it promises to be a thrilling addition to the hot hatch segment. With its powerful engine, sporty design, and upgraded features, the new Yaris is set to make a big splash when it debuts in Geneva.
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